Check Engine Code P0011, Rough Running Engine? How to Diagnose VVT Solenoids!

Do you have a check engine code P0011? Does the engine in your car or truck feel rough, maybe it's misfiring? In this video, Sue takes you through the steps of identifying and diagnosing a timing problem caused by a faulty VVT solenoid. Trouble code P0011 indicates that the camshaft is advanced further than the computer expects it to be. While that could indicate problems with the cam shafts, gears, or timing belts or chains, with modern vehicles, the variable valve timing solenoid is often to blame. The VVT solenoid is a valve that is controlled by the engine computer. It has oil passages that open and close to advance and de-advance timing of the engine. Dirty oil can clog up these passages, and interfere with the valve.

For more great diagnosics like this, check out our playlist!

Subscribe to 1A Auto:

Chapters:
0:00 Check Engine Code P0011 Camshaft Position Over Advanced? How to Diagnose VVT Solenoids!
0:20 P0011 - Camshaft Position Over Advanced - What Causes It?
1:47 Locate the VVT Solenoids
3:46 Ensure Proper Oil Level
6:00 Search for Oil Leaks or Burning
8:20 Run the Engine and Pull Codes
9:48 Electrical Diagnostic
13:13 Remove VVT Solenoids
14:50 Bench Test Comparison Old VVT Solenoid vs New VVT Solenoid
18:14 Install New VVT Solenoid
21:44 Do an Oil Change! Road Test

Check out our playlist:

⚠ DISCLAIMER:
While 1A Auto strives to make the information provided in this video as accurate as possible, it makes no claims, promises, or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or applicability of the content. No information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. All do-it-yourself projects entail some risk. It is the sole responsibility of the viewer to assume this risk. 1A Auto is not responsible or liable for any loss damage (including, but not limited to, actual, consequential, or punitive), liability, claim, or any other injury or cause related to or resulting from any information posted in this video.

[AAuto]

√ *Watch the Video*
√ *Do it Yourself*
√ *Save Money*

[maxberry]

Not gonna lie, this is probably the most detailed 'how to' video I've ever watched. I realised quite quickly that this didn't relate to my issue, and I still finished the whole thing 🤣

[MySpace]

This woman is a well experienced mechanic, she can make any engine sing in harmony.

[callmej]

“Pretty excited about a misfire” 😊 So glad you love your job and make videos like this for us…

[mvernon]

Excellent vid and your mechanic did a great job explaining the process.

[phillhuddleston]

You either advance the timing or retard the timing, I know that last word is a trigger word for some sensitive snowflakes but it's accurate for what you are trying to describe, do not let their overly sensitive feelings stop you from stating the facts using the best and most accurate words to describe what is happening. Great educational video by the way!

[reynaldoclaveria]

Your video is the best demonstration about vvt solenoid testing. Thank you very much may jehovah god bless you.

[Clamlifenc]

Very details and great diagnostic. This video so far are the best I’ve seen. I wish you live in my city, I’ll definitely use your service. Thank you

[sandrarichardson]

Your personality and your method of presentation make it easy to watch. Thank you for all the information you gave on the topic.
I started changing these this morning on an '06 F150 5.4l 3v Triton. The vct's are down in a hole with a small bolt holding them in and a rubber seal on top. The passenger side went ok.
But the driver side little bolt is screwed in so tight it's ridiculous. Maybe a guy could break it loose but it is almost like it was put in with an impact wrench.
So my question is...how can I break this little bolt loose without messing up something? Thanks for your help...whoever answers. Jesus bless.

[cairomoorman]

An amazingly detailed instructor I hope there are more videos lead by her because she is fantastic

[rbrown]

Great, great video. You are a great teacher and technician.

[evanm]

👏🏼 by far the best diagnostic video. Very focused. Easy to follow w great info.

[elab]

If i ever need someone to fix my car, you will be the first one I call. 👍👍

[johnl]

Learned something new everytime thank you.

[allenyoung]

I loved watching someone who LOVES their work....she really does!!!!

[nyun]

Are you married I could sure use a good wife thanks for the video I never heard of this valve are they also on the 4-cylinder Toyotas

[katrinawedemeyer]

I was happy to see a woman doing this video!! You explained things really well. Just wanted to send you a high five!! You go girl!! Katrina

[dennisking]

Your videos helped me sort my cambelt, saved my engine, thank you

[timmyle]

I love the lady. Who can fixed the car. 💪💪💪

[MariaGonzalez-eipv]

Excellent video, well explain 👏bravo 👏